My Top 10 Books of 2023!

There’s no better way to end the year than to share my top favorite books! Here are some notable reads of books I read in 2023 that I enjoyed and/or left a lasting impression on me. As always, it was hard to narrow down this list, but I did it!

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Days at Morisaki Bookshop by Satoshi Yagisawa -Most books about books are about characters who are fascinated with reading already, but where this novel differs is that the main character Takako finds joy through working at the Morisaki Bookshop. This novel is definitely an ode to the reader as it discusses the power of a book and how the story can transport you anywhere and give you purpose. Takako not only renews her footing life but is also able to strengthen the bond with her uncle and make new friends with the eccentric customers of the bookshop. It’s a great story of new beginnings, books, and family!

Reggie and Delilah’s Year of Falling by Elise Bryant – Bryant’s novels manage to tackle important topics while also feeling like a warm cozy hug. I know that my teenage self really could have used this book. Watching Reggie and Delilah grow in their journey together and individually had me hooked on the novel’s overall narrative. I thought the concept of various holidays framing the plot was very fun and made it entertaining. Besides hitting all the major holidays, the novel also focuses on smaller kitschy holidays such as “National Catfish Day” which I loved. 

Queen of the Tiles by Hanna Alkaf – Since this novel takes place throughout a weekend it is very fast-paced while keeping readers engaged in the suspense elements. I love the clever wordplay of Scrabble and the double-entendres lace the plot giving the novel depth and showing just how clever Najwa is. Each chapter starts with an unusual word which gives us clues to the story. Everyone is a suspect and because they want to take over the “queen of the tiles” throne only makes each participant more desperate than ever. Najwa goes through her own journey of regaining confidence in her Scrabble skills and healing through grief.

Happy Place by Emily Henry – A couple who broke up months ago pretend to still be together for their annual weeklong vacation with their best friends. More than the Romance genre it’s categorized as this book felt more like contemporary fiction as it explores romantic relationships and friendships. This novel felt a bit like a coming-of-age story about growing up, growing apart, and trying to figure out what you want in life. The idyllic cottage in Maine backdrop for a scenic vacation backdrop and adds a bit of coziness during the novel’s quitter moments.

Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree – This is a cozy and heartwarming fantasy about bringing a new coffee shop in a small town and how the business comes to life. As a coffee drinker, I could appreciate how the attention to detail surrounding caffeinated drinks and baked goods is described as a kind of art. Viv, through this experience, can try something out of her comfort zone while making new friends (and foes) along the way. By the time I finished the novel I wished I could visit this cozy cafe in real life.

Run on Your New Legs by Wataru Midori – The story follows Kikuzato who becomes integrated in the world of sports after his leg injury. He finds a newfound passion for running after meeting a prosthetist who gives him a new outlook on life. This series is inspiring and offers representation for people with disabilities. I found myself easily getting immersed in the story and Kikuzato’s journey along with other characters. While not everyone reads sports manga, I think this series will appeal to a wider audience due to the human nature focus of the plot. Readers see Kikuzato and other para-athletes overcome obstacles and push forward to a brighter future. This series is a good balance of humor and more serious moments.

Token Black Girl by Danielle Prescod – This memoir at times is difficult to read but is a very important book. Prescod vividly recounts her childhood to the present day about navigating predominately White spaces as a Black Woman. She discusses how she felt like an outsider in many crowds while struggling with racism, sexism, body image, and more. Being that I’ve shared a lot of experiences as Danielle did, I felt very connected to her story. She doesn’t sugarcoat her story at all and for some readers, this memoir will be an eye-opening experience. It may seem like her experiences (she discusses) are hidden in plain sight but it’s a larger conversation about how many people don’t want to be faced with the ugly truth of today’s society.

Lone Women by Victor LaValle – It’s hard to know what you expect out of any horror novel but this one (while it does have some gore) Lone Women mainly relies on suspense. The novel is detailed enough to place the reader in Adelaide’s (main character) shoes but also simplifies certain aspects to leave it up to the reader’s imagination. The latter is much more powerful as the parts that are unseen in a horror novel/film always leave you the most terrified. The novel excellently displays how appearance can be deceiving as more sinister things and people start to reveal themselves. I loved the detailed descriptions used to describe the horror aspects, but LaValle makes things just vague enough to keep the reader on their toes.

Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid – This was a book club pick that everyone in my book club enjoyed. The novel tells the oral history of one of the biggest bands of the seventies. I listened to the audiobook which has stellar casting and narration for all the characters. It felt and read just like a band’s memoir showcasing all the ups and downs of their career as well as the inner emotions of each band member. I don’t usually read too many audiobooks, but this one is one of my favorites I’ve listened to in the longest time.

Wash Day Diaries by Jamila Rowser, Robyn Smith– If you ever need to read a graphic novel that will wrap you in a warm hug, I recommend this graphic novel. This story is a testament to Black girl magic, sisterhood, and the power of friendship. Readers navigate through the girls’ lives and everyday obstacles they face and how their bond of friendship is tested through these events. The artwork was so stunning and I love how the vibrant colors made the story leap off the page. In between the girls’ narratives, the author weaves in commentary on sexism, discrimination, grappling with mental health, and romance.

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What books made your top list for 2023? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.